Cuerno Fire Continues to Slowly Consume Ground Fuels (Santa Fe NF)

Location: 13 miles southeast of Coyote and Size: 33 acres 10 miles southwest of Abiquiu
on top of La Mesita del Cañoncito Seco

Start Date: Aug. 1, 2016 Structures Threatened: None

Cause: Lightning Percent Contained: 0%

Objectives: Mitigate the risk of future high-intensity destructive wildfires that could potentially devastate the watershed and cause flooding in the village of Cañones, improve forest health and promote the growth of grasses and shrubs that provide habitat for game and non-game species.

Summary: No precipitation was received on the fire yesterday and as of last night, the fire had grown to 33 acres. The low-intensity fire continues to slowly burn through heavy duff and large ground fuels. The fire is most active in the afternoon hours when the sun dries out the area, causing an increase in the amount of visible smoke. Today, fire managers will continue assessing conditions and prepare for potential future firing operations on the planning area. The fire continues to be confined by natural barriers, and we will continue to monitor.

Smoke: Smoke from the Cuerno Fire may be visible from Coyote, Abiquiu, Ghost Ranch, State Highway 96 and US Highway 84. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Information on air quality and protecting your health can be found online at the New Mexico Department of Health’s website at https://nmtracking.org/fire.